Travel Stories Blog

Is there anything more exciting than planning a honeymoon? Honeymoons represent the perfect time to set the tone for a couple's upcoming life together, and a luxurious and captivating destination is just the thing to celebrate such a union. Instead of settling for a traditional

Japan is a nation of incomparable beauty - from its lush, subtropical forests in the Ryukyu and Bonin Islands, to the alpine-like vistas in the northern part of the nation. This might explain why so many Japanese citizens feel compelled to flex their artistic muscles and draw inspiration

When compiling a list of the most inspirational, relaxing and rejuvenating destinations around the globe to help soothe your soul, it is easy to focus strictly on the spas, yoga studios, and tranquil beaches near many of the world's more obvious "relaxation-focused" travel

Though it has entered our mainstream lexicon a bit more these days, Day of the Dead, or "Dia de los Muertos," is a Mexican cultural tradition that is as much a celebration of life as it is a remembrance of those who have passed on. But to many of us, the day is still shrouded

Traveling can expand your mind and lead you to new and exciting experiences. You may have cultivated an idea of what your trip will be like based on reviews of past travelers and viewing the websites of popular attractions. While these resources can yield helpful advice and information,

There is something special about visiting a historical site that makes the journey as important as the destination. Just as it takes a bit of effort to ascend to the top of Machu Picchu that cradles this "lost city," it will also take time and determination to unlock the

Some of us spent a good portion of our younger years following our favorite bands from one town to the next, while others now travel the world in search of inspiration from music, culture, and art. If you and your travel partners are ready for a musical journey around the world, make

A luxury trip to Bolivia will expose you to the historical, culinary, and artistic culture this country represents. From the dramatic landscapes in the central region of the country to the exciting cultural and historical experiences awaiting you and your fellow travelers in Lap Paz,

Traveling with family is quickly becoming a popular way to explore the world and reconnect with the important people in your life. Whether you're considering gathering the family to celebrate an anniversary or important life milestone, or simply just to reunite everyone,

Visitors that plan trips to Belize have access to a diverse array of things to see and experiences to enjoy. Part of the charm of Belize is the independent spirit of its people, and the untouched natural beauty of the area. Dive into adventures unlikely to be experienced anywhere else.

International travel continues to gain in popularity with economies around the world indicating strong growth and making travel costs more affordable. Thanks to social media and instantly shareable pictures and articles, the wonders of the world are all that more accessible. If

Have you been binge watching Game of Thrones, getting ready for the new season? Do the spectacular mythical locations, castles, and vistas having you dreaming about your own royal adventures? The good news, is you can visit the majesty and grandeur of real castles without the

The New7Wonders Foundation was established in 2001 and initiated a worldwide campaign that asked individuals to decide on what they considered to be the new Seven Wonders of the World – since only the Great Pyramids (part of the original Seven Wonders) still stand today. After

Drawing upon ancient and often mystical roots, celebrating summer solstice is a time to honor the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, a day to usher in the summer season, and for many cultures, a day for reverting to raucous celebrations. With amazing gatherings and

There are countless stories about friends who excitedly decide to take off on an excursion together, only to discover they aren't well-suited to traveling as a pair. Traveling with a buddy can be incredibly rewarding - you just need to find the right person. Here are 5 ways you know

Think you know a place? Try spending time among the locals at a regional festival and witness the passionate and proud side of the residents there. Let's break down some of the best festivals from around the world.
SCOTTISH HIGHLAND GAMES
This festival is one of the most

Travel is a popular topic among the adults of the world, the international wanderers who roam the globe in search of cultures, enlightening experiences, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty. We tend to return home renewed and ready to tackle the world with a newfound respect

There's something special about traveling by water. If you're thinking about setting out on a voyage, bypass the mega-cruise ships to experience a more intimate and immersive travel experience: river cruises. By embarking on a river journey, you will experience a one-of-a-kind

There is something exquisitely alluring about a coastal travel destination. Perhaps it's the sense of calm induced by the gently lapping waves of an oceanic destination. Or the moderate temperatures and natural beauty that encourages us to get out and get moving every morning.

Since 1758, Cox & Kings has provided access to exquisite locations for adventurous travelers. Creating exceptional moments that translate into lifelong memories is our specialty, and we live for the chance to whisk travelers away to exotic destinations where they'll experience

Have you ever had that moment during a vacation when you said to yourself "I could have sworn I've seen that vista before." Or "Isn't that the marketplace from that movie starring…?" Movies have become part of our national sense of identity, and whether

You've spent a year or more planning the wedding down to the last detail. The dinner is going to be great, the flowers will be perfect, and the reception amazing. After the day ends and the last guest leaves, you and your partner will get to experience what many married couples

Some of us like sports. Some love the game. Still others are true fanatics - devoted to a particular team or club, and fascinated by the history, lore, and action of a particular sport. If you are a sports-obsessed individual and you simply can't get enough of live game action, you

Europe welcomed 51% of the 1.18 billion international travelers in 2015, and part of that stemmed from the fact that the stronger dollar made travel to most European destinations more affordable than ever. But beyond the economics of less expensive airfare and cheaper hotel rooms, Europe

Latin America is a beloved destination for travel enthusiasts from around the world because there is such an incredibly diverse array of things to do, especially Argentina. Argentina is an exceptional destination for those seeking an "off the beaten path" experience - from the

It's a day or two before you leave and the suitcase is sitting on the edge of the bed - ready for whatever you're ready to throw at it. Shirts - check. Pants - check. Socks - check. You've created a list and everything is in there, but the bag now weighs 90 pounds!
You

If visiting the wondrous nation of Thailand is on your list of things to do, it pays to understand the people who live there and the concepts that are a part of everyday Thai life. Interestingly, a percentage of the male population of Thailand has chosen the life of a monk, and the way

A trip to India, Southern India more specifically, is a lesson in diversity. You can scuba dive off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar one day; ride all-terrain vehicles in Goa the next; then go whitewater rafting at Dandeli soon after.
One of the many spice markets in Southern India

Are you ready to sit down with friends and family for a delicious meal of lobster, seal, and swan? If you were part of the original Thanksgiving feast held in 1621, that's what was on the menu! Thanksgiving in the United States today is a celebration of the original feast shared

Our incredible world has so much to offer, and traveling to far off destinations can be one of the most fulfilling adventures you'll ever experience. While you certainly can choose to stay in a world-class hotel or resort, there are those among us who prefer to experience local

If you're like most travelers, your travel entourage likely ranges from a spouse or partner to a full brood of kids. Many of us intentionally plan family or couple's trips to enjoy a new destination with a group of people. But when was the last time you took some time for

There are so many things to see in the United States - national parks, historic landmarks, and beautiful natural wonders - but there is something refreshing and invigorating about leaving the confines of the US and heading out to a country that requires a passport. International travel

Some of us travel to quench that insatiable thirst for new experiences, while others among us opt for travel itineraries that provide a respite from the stresses of the real world and the chaos of normalcy. If you are interested in visiting an authentic locale that will offer a

With all the discount airline carriers and cut-rate travel amenities, it may seem like the airline industry is solely focused on delivering the biggest value quotient possible to travelers. Tiny seats, cramped quarters, and little to no entertainment options define many airline

In 1970, the nation of Bhutan and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth Dragon King, made world news and lasting effects on social understanding with the introduction of the concept of the Gross National Happiness (GNH). He made the famous declaration, "Gross National

Exploring those off the beaten path locations can be remarkably fulfilling adventures, but more and more travelers today are opting for travel within luxurious urban destinations. If you are ready for an exciting journey that delivers all of the perks of modern living and the

In addition to our incredible journeys to exotic destinations - you'll also find amazing North American travel opportunities that provide a unique and immersive experience. You'll do more than just visit these U.S. destinations - you'll get up-close-and-personal with the

The perfect journey is one that is uniquely suited to the traveler's individual tastes. For you, that might mean a quick trip to a single destination or an extended adventure to several select locations of your choice. To help you diversify your next trip and ensure that it

Planning any vacation can feel overwhelming, especially when considering everything that goes into a smooth trip. This can feel much more intense when planning a multigenerational vacation. Whether you are traveling with older friends or family members, or younger children, special

A safari adventure allows the world traveler to experience firsthand the incredible variety of animal life in the wilds of Africa and India. If you dream of such an adventure, where you can watch a cheetah run free and snap a photograph of a sleeping lion or a herd of zebra, a Cox &

One of the most prevalent trends in fitness today is wearable devices that track bio-data like heart rate, step count, GPS location, calories burned, and more. From the Fitbit, Misfit, Apple Watch, Garmin, and Jawbone, the fitness tracker market is flooded with wearable device options to

Embark on your next journey as a traveler, not a tourist. Ask anyone who has traveled on a custom-designed Cox & Kings Private Journey and you will hear what a difference personalization makes. Perhaps it is the feeling that every detail was done with you in mind. Or maybe it was the

If you're like the majority of travelers today, you'd rather be doing almost anything else besides sitting in an airplane for hours on end. While the time it takes to get to your planned destination is a small tradeoff compared to the enriching experiences you'll create once

You've made the decision to plan a memorable vacation to an exciting destination. Bags are packed, tickets and travel documents are organized, and all the last-minute details are complete. Three days to go until departure time… then it happens. You get a call from your boss

The Northern Lights are a natural wonder known the world around as a must-see phenomenon. The image of ethereal colors dancing across the night sky draws visitors to various northern locales, but Iceland is considered one of the best places to experience the Icelandic Northern Lights

If you dream of strolling through streets crowded with ancient Buddhist temples or browsing native markets filled with exquisite, hand-crafted merchandise, a visit to some of Southeast Asia’s remarkable lands is a must. Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar in particular offer

One of the most exciting aspects of traveling is the opportunity to immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences and engage in traditions and practices of other cultures.
In response to traveler demand, Cox & Kings integrated indigenous transportation methods into our travel

Remember having to pack multiple travel guides into your suitcase to ensure you would be able to discover the best your travel destination has to offer? Now you can put all of those resources into your phone or tablet with these incredibly handy apps. Here are five useful apps to

The vast and varied landscapes of our world offer mysterious locales and happenings that prove endlessly unsolvable. Despite the immense efforts of the world's great scholars, these mysteries elude understanding, which only enriches their awe-inspiring presence.
The sheer scale of

On the Serengeti, the circle of life begins and ends with the Great Migration. Although the migration has occurred since the arrival of mammals on these endless plains, the yearly event starts anew at the end of February. The constant rainfall pushes the wildebeests, zebras, elands, and

India is a destination renowned for its rich culture and breathtaking scenery. For those who want to experience the incredible beauty of India, the best way to do so is on the Deccan Odyssey. This luxury train is more than just a mode of transportation - it is meant to serve as a wheeled

Luxury travel should relax your body, calm your mind, and rejuvenate your spirit. The best way to ensure you acquire all three benefits is by booking a journey to a spiritual destination. You can select a location that caters to your religious beliefs and practices or simply choose one

One of the most exciting aspects of luxury travel is the opportunity to experience the unique accommodations of the world. When it comes to guest accommodations, some prefer a five-star suite while others choose to spend a night somewhere less ordinary.
Here are some one-of-a-kind

For the wine lover, few things in life are better than taking a vacation centered around wine. Every bottle of wine develops a distinct flavor profile and personality based on the region where it originated.
Luxury wine travel provides the opportunity to learn more about what makes

One of the most exciting and holistic ways to experience local flavor in an exotic destination is to plan travel around a cultural festival. Experiencing unique holidays, holy days, and other established cultural traditions offers travelers insight into the subtle, yet universal sense of

After the recent deconstruction of travel restrictions that have prohibited Americans from visiting Cuba for the past 50 years, many are rejoicing at the newly acquired permission to visit this land that offers such a rich and interesting history. Although travel guidelines to the

Some countries and their corresponding cultures are known for their delectable and unique food options. Experience the appetizing offerings of cultures around the world with a luxurious foodie tour. Indulge your senses and celebrate the culture of your choice among the following:

Around the globe, societies band together and celebrate special occasions in truly unique ways. Although many people celebrate various holidays in their own special ways, the differences are particularly evident when comparing the holiday traditions associated with Christmas and New

When having the privilege of traveling to some of the unique and amazing places on the planet, it is hard not to want to give something back. Whether it is helping wildlife or supporting cultures, the most rewarding trips are those with philanthropic applications. This is why Cox &

The Galapagos Islands, located around 600 miles east of Ecuador, are the perfect place to experience a highly diverse collection of terrain and wildlife. As one of the few places on Earth where human disturbances have been kept to a minimum, this archipelago of volcanic island is the

Going on a trip to the African safari is something many people would consider to be the ultimate adventure vacation. On safari, you will get the opportunity to view rare and beautiful landscapes and wildlife, enjoy vastly different terrains and interact with locals. Taking a once in a

Corporate getaways or retreats can be a great way for companies to allow employees to regroup in an effort to focus on productive dialogue to improve team performance and morale. In order for a corporate getaway to meet these goals, it must be carefully planned. This can often prove more

Honeymooning is one of the best parts of getting married, as you are able to connect with your new spouse on the journey of a lifetime. Whether you want to lazily lounge on a beach in an exotic country, or walk hand in hand through the streets of a romantic European city, your honeymoon

Easter is just a few days away, but you might be a little tired of candy bunnies and Easter egg hunts. Instead of staying at home for yet another ham dinner, why not travel somewhere and try a new Easter tradition? These are a few of our favorite ways that Easter is celebrated in

A global holiday designated to commemorate the date of the death of the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick, St Patrick’s Day is synonymous with multiple-day festivals, celebrators adorning themselves in green attire and a higher-than-average daily consumption of beer.
While

When I was a child, I thought of Morocco as a mysterious country far, far away — a land of deserts and mountains, exotic marketplaces and magnificent palaces. Traveling on the Splendors of Morocco, a Cox & Kings Escorted Discovery Group Journey, proved that my dreams of Morocco

If you’re getting married or just got married, first off, congratulations! Second, you’re probably in the midst of planning your honeymoon, which prior to the actual honeymooning, can be somewhat of a challenge, especially when you don’t know where you want to go. For

I’d been hearing glowing reports of travelers having extraordinary experiences in Iceland and Norway, so with visions of glaciers and fjords in my head, I hopped a flight to Reykjavik. After landing at Keflavik airport, I was greeted by the friendly face of my Cox & Kings

As the Cox & Kings Destination Manager for Africa, I am passionate about gaining firsthand knowledge about the destinations we feature. This May, I spent nine days visiting a number of camps in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Linyanti Reserve, and the Victoria Falls area. I had been

Are you craving summer break and everything that comes with it? Plan your next vacation at one of these paradisiacal destinations with summers that last all year long, where the sun’s always shining, the sand is always toasty, and the warm waters always calling your name:

Most Americans live at a double remove from the source of their food. First, we never visit farms, much less slaughter animals or harvest our own crops. Then just to keep the mystery alive, the vittles we do consume are processed and packaged to a point of complete anonymity. Nearly

Creating custom journeys for the Latin America and Antarctica department of Cox and Kings always sparks my wanderlust for the region. Speaking with travelers both before and after their journeys builds my excitement and reminds me of the areas I love to visit whenever I have an

Most of our China journeys include stops in Beijing or Shanghai to see the incredible sights of these world-class cities. For a wonderful addition to any China journey, consider Hangzhou in the Zhejiang Province in Eastern China. This time last year, I was able to take a few days and

When you fly into Papua New Guinea, don’t be surprised if the welcoming committee comes out to greet you. In the capital, Port Moresby — a sprawling, sultry collection of neighborhoods — the locals are used to travelers arriving, but when you get up into the highlands,

I’m always looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations and last month’s Spring Break vacation with my family was just that — we decided to go to Nicaragua. I called Ignacio Vallin, our Latin America Manager, and asked him to put together an itinerary that would be fun

Argentina loves to eat great food; there’s no question there! If you travel here, you’ll quickly find that many social gatherings are centered on sharing a meal and eating together. You’ll also quickly see why they love to eat the foods they eat. Get those palettes and

Seema Prakash is the Destination Manager for India & the Subcontinent. She recently took the journey of a lifetime to Sri Lanka and touched on the many highlights that this wonderful island nation has to offer. Read her story below and be inspired to travel to this remarkably scenic

For more than a quarter millennium, Cox & Kings has been evolving the art of travel, delivering the finest, most thrilling, and most unforgettable travel experiences in the world. And when we celebrate, we like to do it with a cocktail developed at the Sofitel St. James Hotel, which

Many authors and discerning travelers have addressed and explained, or have at least tried to address, the formidable task of explaining and penning down their experiences of Varanasi, the most sacred and ancient city in India.
I find it very easy to exhaust my limited vocabulary in my

For many people the words London and pub are synonymous. Even people who aren’t fans of beer are drawn to the social experience a good pub seems to promise. And since my husband and I were headed for London in December there was the added delight of a cozy booth beside a crackling

I’m always excited to chat about all the fantastic destinations Cox & Kings covers. However, I get most enthusiastic about one in particular.
When asked about my favorite place in the world, I always respond “India.” There is no place on earth like it. I get an

I flew into Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines from Washington, DC, which is the only nonstop flight from North America to East Africa — making Ethiopia relatively easy to access and a great jumping off point to other countries on the continent. Ethiopian Airlines also features the

Autumn in the United States. Days growing shorter and shorter, a chill in the air. It was clearly time to go on safari in Africa. So we packed our bags and headed for the airport and our flight to Arusha, Tanzania.
Upon arrival, we were met by our local guide and taken to our

Many cultures have their own unique romantic gestures, gestures that may not look like much to an outsider. These gestures can be small, or they can be large, elaborate things that take planning to accomplish. In honor of Valentine’s Day, here are some of the most swoon-worthy

For foodies and wine enthusiasts the world over, the wine and cuisine of Italy are the stuff that dreams are made of. From sprawling vineyards to traditional dishes cooked in quaint villages, Italy offers visitors much more than beautiful landscapes. Visit one of the following

There are more than 10,000 species of birds in the world, and devoted “Twitchers” -- committed birdwatchers who will travel to any location just to catch a glimpse of some of the more exotic varieties -- will go great lengths to add to their list of birds, also known as a

When traveling in France it is fun to do the touristy destinations like the Eiffel Tower, or to simply enjoy the decadent food and wine from the region. But remember, you’ll find incredible beauty and countless local wonders when you stray off of the beaten path. These destinations

Family vacations are where memories are made and bonds are formed. They can open up the world for a youngster or introducing a teenager to new cultures. The following locations offer family fun that appeals to parents as well as children. Plan your next luxury family vacation at one of

Travelling to Europe is one of the most exciting things most people will ever experience. It can, however, often be difficult to visit and experience everything you want to when in Europe. One of the best ways to ensure you are able to make the most of your trip to Europe is by opting

In France, early September is known as la rentrée—it’s the official end of summer. Families are back from vacation, restaurants and stores reopen after being shuttered for a month, kids head off to school and the shelves of the bookstores are bulging as authors release

In recent years, there has been a large shift in the collective conscious to be more mindful of human impact on the environment. This has also led to the emergence of what is known as ecotourism. This movement is defined as travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and

South America is the ideal place if you are looking for wondrous natural beauty as well as culture and excitement. With such a wide array of countries, each with their own unique climates and attractions, there is something for everyone to love. It is important to remember that because

We are deeply saddened by the situation in Nepal. The destruction and loss of life stemmed from the massive earthquake that devastated the area on April 25, 2015. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was affected by this terrible event, and we extend our deepest

Traveling to Europe is a huge opportunity, but if you’re like most people, you don’t want to spend all of your time staring at paintings and museums. Fortunately, Europe offers some of the best adventure spots in the world. If you’re planning a trip, make sure you

Searching for solace in a crowded, busy world? It is possible to get away from it all? Check out these places for quietude and open space.
Greenland
Greenland is over three times the size of Texas, and its surface area is covered primarily by the second largest ice cap in the world.

Traveling has always been a means to escape the harried hustle of the everyday experience. You want to leave behind the cubicle, corner office, demanding clients-and more recently, the latest technology, Internet and social media? Do you drag your laptop onto a cruise ship or check your

Planning trips through any of the online travel agency (OTA) websites, such as Priceline, Kayak, and Expedia, can feel like a quick and easy process that can be completed from the comfort of your own home. However, you can fall prey to some costly surprises if you have not done a little

With economies across the globe recovering, the luxury travel sector has seen tremendous growth.
Consumers have again begun to embrace luxury goods and services. Not to be limited to one definition - luxury travel can mean very different experiences. What constitutes luxury differs

On New Year's Eve, many people create New Year’s resolutions for the upcoming year. Often, these resolutions include things like living a healthier lifestyle, or making time for friends and family. Also, many people resolve to travel more so they can finally see those places on

Brazil’s Carnaval is one of the biggest parties in the world. It practically shuts everything down as the fun goes nonstop – day and night. The five day festival is full of enormous parades, entertaining music, vibrant costumes and delicious food.
The style of

One of the key factors that deter many people from traveling is the cost. Many people believe that the cost of airfare, hotels, food and sightseeing will be too much for their budget. However, there are many places throughout the world where the dollar is strong against the local

It’s not just about reaching your destination; it’s about how you get there too.
You’ll find some of the coolest modes of transportation while you’re abroad. From elephants to bamboo trains to dog sleds to woven boats, you’ll get a great cultural awakening by